UTS OVAL ROOM – FRANK GEHRY

Sydney, Australia

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

CREDITS: Gehry Partners LLP / Daryl Jackson Robin Dyke / Arup / Lend Lease / F & D Normoyle

Designed using precisely dimensioned Glulam Blocks 450mm wide, 650 deep and up to 12m in length; TimberLab was able to meet the strict tolerances required for this complex structure. Although appearing to be randomly arranged, the exacting alignment of each piece meant careful attention had to be paid to the shape of each member. 230 individual items completed the intricate configuration to produce an outstanding engineered timber structural sculpture.
New Zealand Pine was chosen to provide the desired performance and appearance. Using proven manufacturing techniques to produce these oversized blocks, the demanding finished shaping was achieved using the latest CNC 5 axis gantry processor – the first of its kind in Australasia
Specially shaped beams `required exact profiling that could only be achieved using CNC equipment driven from accurate 3D computer modelling.
With all members finished and polished in the factory, packaging and transport required careful planning to avoid damage. Forty years of shipping experience to international destinations meant TimberLab ensured their safe delivery.
Assembly and installation was carried out by F & D Normoyle in Sydney. Their commitment to careful accuracy ensured that the finished structure met the demanding requirements of this standout project.

AWARDS: 2015 NZ Timber Design Award, Highly Commended, Engineered Innovation